Mastoptera

Mastoptera is a genus of parasitic bat flies classified within the family Streblidae, a group of highly specialized ectoparasites that exclusively parasitize bats. Due to limited research on the phylogeny of this genus, existing studies suggest that it is likely monophyletic in relation to bird flies. Members of this genus have evolved to maintain a close relationship with their bat hosts, feeding on their blood and depending on them for survival. Mastoptera species are wingless and exhibit a spider-like appearance.^[1]

Mastoptera
Image of Mastoptera guimaraesi
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Arthropoda
Class:	Insecta
Order:	Diptera
Family:	Streblidae
Genus:	Mastoptera Wenzel, 1966

Biology

Mastoptera are minute ectoparasites characterized by a light brown or tan coloration. While females are typically longer than males, the genus overall is considered the smallest within the family Streblidae, with body lengths averaging approximately 1.5 mm. A notable feature distinguishing Mastoptera from other genera in the family is the reduction in the size of their compound eyes.^[2]

Habitat

Mastoptera species are distributed throughout a variety of tropical and subtropical regions around the world. They are most commonly found in the Eastern Hemisphere, where environmental conditions favor their association with bat hosts. Their presence across diverse habitats highlights their adaptability to different climates within these warmer regions.^[3]

Host and mechanism

This genus exhibits a high degree of host specificity, relying exclusively on bats as their definitive hosts. They attach to the bat's fur or wing membranes to feed on blood. They typically remain on a single host throughout their life cycle, maintaining attachment into adulthood.^[4] Mastoptera species are known to parasitize tropical bat species, particularly those in the Molossidae family, such as Cynomops planirostris, Molossops temminckii, and Tadarida brasiliensis. These species are often found in close association with free-tailed bats and other related species in tropical and subtropical regions.^[5]

Reproduction

Mastoptera reproduce via viviparous puparity, a reproductive method in which the female gives birth to live larvae rather than laying eggs. When the female is ready to give birth, she temporarily separates from the bat host to find a suitable location where she can deposit her larva. Once the larva is placed, it forms a puparium, and a protective cuticle develops around it. This process ensures that the larva remains safe during its development. After approximately 22 to 24 days, the immature adults emerge from the puparium. At this stage, they are still weak and underdeveloped, and they immediately seek out a suitable bat host to feed on its blood. Blood feeding is critical for their growth and further development. Once they have consumed enough blood, they mature into fully developed adults, at which point they are capable of reproduction.^[2]

Species

The genus Mastoptera currently consists of two confirmed species:^[6][7]

• Mastoptera guimaraesi Wenzel, 1966
• Mastoptera minuta Wenzel, 1966